Tektronix SPG8000A Master Sync / Master Clock Reference Generator
The Tektronix SPG8000A is a cutting-edge precision multiformat video signal generator designed for master synchronization and reference applications essential in the broadcast and production industry. With its ability to deliver a myriad of video reference signals, including black burst, HD tri-level sync, and a comprehensive range of serial digital and composite analog test patterns, the SPG8000A is an indispensable tool for professionals seeking unmatched performance and reliability.
Key Features
- Customizable Configuration: The base configuration features three independent sync outputs, configurable in various formats (NTSC/PAL black burst and HD tri-level sync) with adjustable timing offsets.
- Expansion Options: Enhance your setup with Option BG, adding four additional analog outputs for increased versatility.
- Stable Reference: A high-accuracy, oven-controlled crystal oscillator ensures a reliable frequency reference, or utilize the genlock input to synchronize with external video references or a continuous 10 MHz signal.
- Stay GenLock™ Technology: This innovative feature prevents synchronization shock when external references are temporarily disrupted by maintaining frequency and phase stability until recovery.
Time Reference Outputs
The SPG8000A offers an extensive array of time reference outputs:
- Three independent linear time code (LTC) outputs with customizable frame rate selection, time source options, and time zone offsets.
- Vertical interval time code (VITC) available on each NTSC or PAL black output, capable of supporting different time sources and offsets.
- Serving as an NTP server or PTP grandmaster clock, it efficiently delivers accurate time-of-day references to network-attached devices.
Test Signal Outputs
With its extensive configuration capabilities, the SPG8000A can output various signal types:
- Option BG includes composite analog outputs (NTSC or PAL) for generating test patterns like color bars or additional black burst outputs.
- Option SDI adds dual independent serial digital video generator channels with comprehensive configuration options for any standard 3G/HD/SD-SDI format and frame rate.
- Loaded with standard test patterns, including color bars, multiburst, SDI pathological matrices, and a programmable zone plate generator. Users can also upload bitmap images for customized test patterns.
Audio Reference Signals
The SPG8000A supports various audio reference signal outputs:
- A 48 kHz word clock output is included as standard, and with Option AG, five AES/EBU output pairs are available.
- Test tone generation with independent frequency and amplitude settings for each of the eight channels is supported.
- Embedded Dolby E audio format is provided through Option SDI, allowing configurations for mono, stereo, 5.1, and 7.1 surround sound audio, complete with relevant metadata for testing.
Remote Access
For seamless operation, the SPG8000A features a 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet interface:
- A user-friendly web-based interface for configuration and monitoring enhances usability.
- Integration with network management systems is facilitated via SNMP messaging for alarm and status handling.
- General Purpose Interface (GPI) supports remote control and alarm reporting.
- A front-panel USB port allows for convenient backup, restoration of presets, and system firmware upgrades.
Optional Backup Power Supply
The SPG8000A can be equipped with an optional second power supply module, ensuring continuous operation in mission-critical environments:
- The backup supply undergoes daily load testing for maximum reliability.
- Temperature-weighted hours logging gives insights into the expected life of power supplies.
- Hot-swappable power supply modules ensure easy replacement without system downtime, complete with a locking mechanism to prevent accidental disconnections.
Technical Specifications
- Multiple independent outputs for black burst and HD tri-level sync, essential for broadcast and production environments.
- Supports various time reference signals, including LTC outputs, VITC, and NTP server capabilities.
- GPS/GLONASS synchronization ensures accurate time-of-day references and video phase stability.
- Advanced Stay GenLock and GPS Holdover Recovery systems prevent synchronization shock during disruptions.
- Comprehensive selection of video test patterns across serial digital formats and composite analog.
- Dual hot-swappable power supplies guarantee uninterrupted reference signal availability.
- User-friendly web interface and SNMP integration streamlining management and monitoring.
